Cohabitation: Setting up & Splitting Up

There is an increasing number of people who, rather than entering into marriage, prefer to live together, often buying property together, having children, and sometimes entering into joint ventures. Their legal rights and responsibilities towards each other are very different to those of married couples, and the law that is applied to such relationships is complex. There is no such thing as a “common law” spouse and advice on the separation of non-married couples is very different to that applicable to divorcees. We can fully advise if this occurs and also can draft agreements at the beginning of relationships to define the rights and responsibilities of the parties, and potentially save heartache (and legal costs) at a later date. For further information, read our guide to cohabitation.

Testimonials

"Key partner Rob Hart is respected in the market as an authority on children cases. He frequently represents guardians and family members in contentious cases, where he is able to serve as both solicitor and advocate. Peers recognise him as 'very competent; he has the ear of the court'."

- Chambers & Partners

"The service Nicola Matthews provided was amazing. I was always given sound advice and never had to 'chase' for any information. Nicola made me feel at ease at such a stressful time. I would have no hesitation in recommending Nicola."

- Client of Nicola Matthews

"Hay & Kilner is a long-established firm with an excellent family department."

- Chambers Guide

"Nicola Matthews has particular strength in the financial aspects of divorce, and helps to demystify what is – to a layman – a tortuous and complicated process."

- Chambers & Partners

"I have nothing but good things to say about the service I received from Rob Hart."

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